Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Tex-Mex Chili Cheese Fries Supreme?
This is an indulgent Southwestern dish featuring crispy Idaho potato wedges topped with a hearty homemade chili, creamy cheese sauce, and served with a fresh romaine and cucumber salad.
What type of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for Idaho potatoes cut lengthwise into six wedges.
How do I season the potato wedges?
Drizzle the wedges with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle them with grill seasoning before roasting.
What is the recommended oven temperature for roasting the fries?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for the best results.
How long do the potato wedges need to roast?
Roast the potatoes for approximately 40 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
What types of meat can be used in the chili?
You can use lean ground meat such as sirloin, turkey, or chicken.
How long should I cook the ground meat?
Cook the meat for about 6-7 minutes until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon or potato masher.
Which aromatics are used in the Tex-Mex chili?
The chili includes chopped onion, minced garlic, and seeded, chopped jalapeño peppers.
What spices give the chili its Tex-Mex flavor?
A blend of chili powder (about two palmfuls) and ground cumin (half a palmful) provides the signature flavor.
How do I incorporate the tomato paste?
Add the tomato paste after the vegetables have softened and cook it for about one minute to allow it to caramelize.
What liquids are added to the chili mixture?
The chili uses hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef or chicken stock.
How long does the chili need to simmer?
Once it reaches a bubble, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
How do I start the homemade cheese sauce?
Begin by melting butter in a saucepan and whisking in flour to create a roux, cooking it for about one minute.
What liquids go into the cheese sauce?
Gradually whisk in milk and additional chicken stock along with yellow mustard.
What kind of cheese is best for the topping?
The recipe recommends using 1.5 to 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
How do I finish the cheese sauce?
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until completely melted, then season with salt and pepper.
What is included in the side salad?
The side salad consists of chopped romaine lettuce and chopped seedless cucumber.
How do I dress the salad?
Whisk together extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper before tossing with the greens.
How should I assemble the final dish?
Divide the fries among plates, top generously with the chili, drizzle with the cheese sauce, and serve the salad on the side.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 800 calories.
What is the fat content of this dish?
There are 50 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 40 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 50 grams of carbohydrates.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick meal?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy recipe perfect for a family meal or party food.
Can I make the chili spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding more hot sauce or leaving the seeds in the jalapeño.
What is the purpose of the yellow mustard in the cheese sauce?
The mustard adds a tangy flavor that helps balance the richness of the cheese and butter.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires a total of 25 ingredients.
What tags define this recipe?
Common tags include Tex-Mex, comfort food, crispy fries, cheesy, and party food.
Can I use different types of stock?
Yes, you can use either beef or chicken stock for both the chili and the cheese sauce depending on your preference.